Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
markedly different. In particular, the most influential of efficacy information sources
has been identified to be past performance accomplishments, and their influence on self-
efficacy beliefs has been confirmed through a meta-analysis of sport studies (Moritz et al.
2000). Self-efficacy is embedded in performance results (Bandura 1997), and as a person
gains more experiences of a certain task, performance becomes a stronger predictor of
self-efficacy (Short and Ross-Stewart 2009). This suggests that for individuals with dis-
abilities, compromised performance outcomes may have a negative impact on their self-
efficacy beliefs. However, an environment that promotes accessible sport for individuals
with disabilities through the use of assistive technology and adapted programs may facili-
tate successful task performances that build over time. Although the self-efficacy beliefs
of individuals with disabilities may continue to influence their performance outcomes,
consistent experiences of accessible sport may contribute to enhancing their inclinations
to participate in physical activities.
19.1.2 Facilitating Psychological recovery through Sport
Participation in sport and physical activity has been suggested to be a factor that contrib-
utes toward psychological recovery for individuals who have acquired disabilities. Life
changes can be overwhelming with an acquired disability because of heightened depen-
dence on others and altered abilities to perform daily living activities. Persons in such
a situation have been known to find new motivations in engaging in sport and physical
activity, possibly because involvement in sport and exercise has been shown to facilitate
a rediscovery of a sense of self-identity (Carless and Sparkes 2008) and boost self-esteem
(Fox 2000; Richardson et al. 2005). With a host of other benefits (e.g., physiologic and social)
associated with being physically active, the positive effects on the process of psychological
recovery among individuals who experienced disabling injuries highlights the need for
approaches to make sport and physical activity participation accessible.
Anecdotal stories have shown that individuals with disabilities struggle with finding
the best techniques and technologies that would aid their successful performances in
sport and physical activity. On some occasions, devices have been designed by the users
themselves who best understood the needs and demands associated with their conditions.
Nevertheless, paradigm shifts in the society have led to movements and institutionalized
approaches at identifying methods and technologies that promote the participation of
individuals with disabilities in sport and physical activity.
19.2 Adapted Physical Activity: When Physical Activity Is for Everyone
The direct and critical role of physical activity (PA) in the primary prevention of car-
diovascular conditions, diabetes, obesity, and cancer has been established among adults
(Dunn and Blair 2002). This has been confirmed in a recent review of the World Health
Organization (WHO), and the positive effect of physical activity in musculoskeletal
health and psychological well-being has been identified (Bull et al. 2004). Evidence has
shown that PA participation may lead to improved physical fitness, muscular strength,
and overall quality of life (Pedersen and Saltin 2006). Suffice it to say, substantial evidence
indicates that physical inactivity is directly related to the global burden of disease, dis-
ability, and death.
